Dr. Erik Carman Presents LSVT BIG as a Leading Treatment for Parkinson’s at the Capital District Parkinson’s Support Group
Last Thursday, Dr. Erik Carman of Altamont Physical Therapy had the honor of speaking to the Capital District Parkinson’s Support Group, sharing practical strategies and evidence-based insights on one of the most effective movement-based treatments for Parkinson’s: LSVT BIG Therapy.
The event was held at the brand new Capital District YMCA Parkinson’s Center, a dedicated facility built to support individuals living with Parkinson’s disease through specialized programs, community resources, and expert-led education.
What Is LSVT BIG Therapy?
LSVT BIG is a research-backed, intensive physical therapy program designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s disease. It focuses on retraining the brain and body to move with bigger, more deliberate, more confident movements.
Because Parkinson’s can diminish movement amplitude over time, LSVT BIG helps patients:
Improve balance
Walk with more confidence
Reduce shuffling and freezing
Increase arm swing and step length
Maintain independence longer
Improve overall quality of life
It is one of the most widely recommended non-medication treatments for Parkinson’s, and it integrates seamlessly with a patient’s daily routines.
Dr. Carman’s Message: Empowerment Through Movement
During the presentation, Dr. Carman emphasized that while medication plays an important role, functional movement training is one of the most powerful tools patients can control.
LSVT BIG is built around high-intensity, high-effort movement — but always scaled to each individual’s abilities.
Dr. Carman shared real-world examples of how LSVT BIG can:
Help people walk more smoothly
Restore confidence during daily tasks
Reduce fall risk
Improve strength, flexibility, and reaction time
Empower patients to stay active and engaged
Participants also had a chance to practice key LSVT BIG principles and ask questions about how physical therapy fits into a comprehensive plan for Parkinson’s disease.
A New Resource for the Community: Capital District YMCA Parkinson’s Center
The meeting took place inside the stunning new Capital District YMCA Parkinson’s Center, a first-of-its-kind facility in the region.
This new center provides:
Specialized Parkinson’s exercise classes
Education and support groups
Wellness programs tailored for PD
A welcoming community space
It was the perfect venue to highlight how movement, mindset, and early intervention make a measurable impact on Parkinson’s progression.
LSVT BIG at Altamont Physical Therapy
At Altamont PT, we believe every patient deserves a personalized, empowering treatment for Parkinson’s, not a one-size-fits-all plan.
That’s why our therapists:
Are certified in LSVT BIG Therapy
Perform detailed mobility and balance assessments
Create individualized treatment plans
Teach exercises that can be done safely at home
Focus on what each patient can control
And most importantly — we listen.
Looking for a Treatment for Parkinson’s That Helps You Move Better?
If you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s, now is the perfect time to explore movement-based therapy that can improve strength, mobility, and confidence.
📞 Call Altamont Physical Therapy to schedule an LSVT BIG evaluation.
Your movement matters — and we’re here to help you protect it.
"I had an excellent experience at Altamont Physical Therapy. From my first visit, they took the time to understand my pain and created a personalized treatment plan that truly made a difference. Their expertise, encouragement, and hands-on approach helped me regain strength and mobility faster than I expected. The entire team was friendly, professional, and committed to my recovery. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of physical therapy!"
